Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich launches sweeping tax reforms for new immigrants, declaring 2026 Israel’s “Year of Aliyah” and urging global Jewry to return home.
In a bold and emotional declaration, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced a historic Zionist-driven tax reform aimed at bringing home Jews from across the globe. Speaking to Arutz Sheva – Israel National News, Smotrich described the sweeping plan as both economically visionary and deeply rooted in Zionist ideology, positioning 2026 as “the Year of Aliyah.”
“The State of Israel opens its gates, its hands, its heart to its brothers and sisters in the diaspora,” Smotrich said, emphasizing that the Land of Israel is the ultimate home for every Jew.
Under the new policy, new immigrants (olim) will receive a complete income tax exemption for two years, followed by a 50% reduction for an additional three years. The move, Smotrich said, is “a massive Zionist incentive to bring Jewish wealth, talent, and spirit back home.”
“This reform is not only economically sound—it is a moral and national imperative,” he continued. “It will strengthen Israel’s economy while reconnecting world Jewry to their eternal homeland.”
Smotrich directly appealed to Jews facing growing antisemitism across the Western world, particularly in the United States, France, and the UK. “Sadly, the reality of rising antisemitism is undeniable. It is time for our brothers and sisters to come home—where they truly belong.”
When asked about the rise of openly anti-Israel politicians like New York’s Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, Smotrich dismissed political trends abroad: “Our message transcends politics. Israel is the home of all Jews, regardless of who governs elsewhere.”
Invoking the words of Rabbi Avraham Kook, the Finance Minister reflected: “Sometimes aliyah is driven by external pressure, sometimes by an inner longing. Today, both forces are calling our people back.”
The minister highlighted that recent years have already made life easier for olim—with new professional licensing reforms, rent assistance, and expanded Hebrew language programs—all designed to smooth the path for returning Jews.
Smotrich concluded with conviction: “We are not only reforming taxes—we are reforming destiny. The gates of Zion are wide open. 2026 will be the year Jews come home.”
